Technology Review reports that the two consortiums will start manufacturing aircraft parts using 3D printers. As stated by TR:

“Technology for printing three-dimensional objects has existed for decades, but its applications have been largely limited to novelty items and specialized custom fabrication, such as the making of personalized prosthetics. But the technology has now improved to the point that these printers can make intricate objects out of durable materials , including ceramics and metals such as titanium and aluminum, with resolution on the scale of tens of micrometers.”

Recent improvements in 3-D printers can manufacture tiny components from a wide range of materials, from ceramics to metals. GE researchers developed a new 3-D printing method involving a ceramic slurry exposed to an ultraviolet light. It solidifies when exposed to the light, and in this way, the transducers are built up layer by layer, rather than carved away.

The system is not yet ready for mass production but it lowers the costs of the current manufacturing process. The video showcases the additive process used to build 3D structures. More details can be found on Scott Smith GE Blog at the Diagnostics & Biomedical Imaging group in Niskayuna, NY USA.

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“I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and cause me to tremble for safety of my country; corporations have been enthroned, an era of corruption in High Places will follow, and the Money Power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the People, until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands, and the Republic destroyed.”
ABRAHAM LINCOLN, letter to Col. William F. Elkins, Nov. 21, 1864
Ref: The Lincoln Encyclopedia, Archer H. Shaw (Macmillan, 1950, NY)